Air Force Undersecretary Matthew Lohmeier provided an assessment of the service’s readiness, stating it is 'older, smaller, and less ready than it needs to be to defend the homeland and deter aggression in the Pacific.' This statement was made during his keynote address at Life Cycle Industry Days 2026 on July 28, 2026.
Lohmeier highlighted the issue of chronic underinvestment in the Air Force, noting that while new platforms such as the F-15EX, F-35, B-21, and F-47 have been introduced, the main concern lies in the production rate and sustainability of existing capabilities. He mentioned that nearly half of the Air Force fleet is over 40 years old, with over 60% of its aircraft exceeding 30 years in age.
Despite significant annual spending on maintenance, there have been reports of delays and backlogs in aircraft maintenance. A Government Accountability Office report indicated that maintenance delays increased from 31% in fiscal 2019 to 73% in fiscal 2024. Lohmeier stated that about 1 in 8 Air Force aircraft is not mission-capable due to a shortage of spare parts.
To address these challenges, the Air Force announced a new acquisition transformation strategy aimed at enhancing the defense industrial base. Lohmeier emphasized the need for increased quantity and improved delivery of systems and munitions. He also noted the impact of ongoing military operations, particularly in Iran, on the Air Force's readiness and resources. Recent reports indicated that at least 42 U.S. aircraft have been lost or damaged during Operation Epic Fury.
Despite concerns about stockpiles of critical munitions, administration officials have stated that the military maintains sufficient inventory for missions approved by the president. However, General Dan Caine reportedly warned that resuming major combat operations against Iran could deplete U.S. missile interceptor stockpiles.